Pont Royal can be explored through several interconnected structures: a road bridge dating from 1812, the Port de Pont Royal, built in 1833, and a toll house constructed between 1835 and 1838. Together, these construction phases tell the story of a place where road and waterway meet. Those interested in cultural history will find a clear thread here—from road building and the canal port to a permanent light installation.
The bridge and port as a historical connection
The detached road bridge at Pont Royal was built in 1812 under the direction of engineer Charles Forey, for the road from Dijon to Paris via Avallon. The Port de Pont Royal was added in 1833, at the junction of the Canal de Bourgogne and the road from Paris via Avallon. These dates mark different construction projects: the bridge belongs to the road, while the port connects the area to the canal.
The bridge is also part of the complex comprising the Port de Pont Royal, a boating stop and a harbour basin on the Canal de Bourgogne. The history of the area therefore brings road building and inland navigation together, rather than treating them as separate elements. This perspective helps you see the bridge not only as a structure in its own right, but also understand its role within the port complex.
Buildings and art at the Port de Pont Royal
The Pont Royal toll house stands on the port’s right bank. Construction began in 1835 and was completed in 1838. The building has a ground floor and two upper floors, and also served as a lock keeper’s house. Its location, layout and two functions give it a distinctive place in the history of the port: it is connected both to the development on the riverbank and to its operation.
The Port de Pont Royal includes a rectangular harbour basin with traces of a former washhouse. These signs of earlier use add another historical layer to the story of the port. Since 1994, the port has been illuminated at night by the permanent work “Eleven Light Columns” by artist Michel Verjux. The site’s history thus stretches from 19th-century structures to a later artistic work.
Experience the Canal de Bourgogne by water or along the VĂ©loroute
During the 2026 season, trips on the Bateau Elza depart from Pont Royal. The pilot tells the story of the Canal de Bourgogne and its boatmen. If you are planning a trip, check seasonal availability before you travel so you can tailor your plans to the options available on your travel dates.
The VĂ©loroute along the Canal de Bourgogne also passes through Pont Royal: on the route from Migennes to Saint-Jean-de-Losne, it crosses the Pont Royal bridge, just a few metres from the Maison du Canal. Check local access details before you travel. The two options offer different experiences: the boat trip focuses on the narrated history of the canal and inland navigation, while the VĂ©loroute links Pont Royal to a longer route along the Canal de Bourgogne.
Discover more destinations: Minot, Channay, Marey-Lès-Fussey, Poncey-Sur-L'ignon, Charencey, Messigny-Et-Vantoux, Villeferry, Oigny.
For the broader travel overview: Cote-Dor.
